Deepcut to Nowhere, Graham Parker

Graham Parker has been releasing quality records to a hardcore fan base for over twenty-five years. His latest is a killer collection that incorporates elements of rock, country, ballad, and Sam Cooke-style soul to make its glorious point. Parker puts everything into this one, and the band, including former Rumour drummer Steve Goulding, is right there with him. Songs like “I’ll Never Play Jacksonville Again,” “If It Ever Stops Raining,” “Depend On Me,” and “Tough On Clothes” are among the best he’s ever recorded. Track 7, “Blue Horizon,” is straight-up beautiful, and worth the price of the cd alone. Springsteen said that Parker was the only musician he’d ever pay to see live, and if you get the opportunity, do so. For now, you ought to buy this record. If you only own Squeezing Out Sparks or Howling Wind, you don’t own the complete essential Parker. Deepcut to Nowhere belongs in the rack alongside them.